Conference Examines Origins of Racial Discontent in U.S.

April 13, 1998

The issue of race and its role in American politics will be explored at a conference sponsored by the University May 1 and 2.

"The national dialogue on race initiated by President Clinton is an example of the ability of race to surface, fade, and reemerge in the nation's political consciousness," said Fredrick C. Harris, assistant professor of political science at the University of Rochester and conference planner. Often lacking in discussions about race, Harris believes, are the links that connect historical factors to contemporary forces in American politics.

A total of 14 speakers at the conference, titled "Race in the Development of American Politics and Society: The Origins of Discontent," will develop such topics as race and citizenship, black nationalism, race and institutional change in Britain, France and the United States, racial meaning in America, and the development of ethnic communities.

"Race has left its imprint on the framing of the Constitution, the nation's legal doctrines, the strategies of presidents and political parties, social policies, the allocation of government benefits, and the common understandings of what it means to be an American," said Harris.

The historical study of race and politics is an emerging field for political scientists and historians. Harris pointed out that an important goal of the sessions is to expose students to the depth of scholarship on the issue of race.

The conference is sponsored by the Dean of Faculty, the Dean's Office of the College, the Department of Political Science, and the Susan B. Anthony Institute for Gender and Women's Studies. Sessions will be held in The Meliora.

The conference is dedicated to the late Sam C. Nolutshungu, professor of political science and African politics at the University, who died last year.

Those interested in attending can call (585) 275-4735 or e-mail fchs@troi.cc.rochester.edu.

About the University of Rochester
The University of Rochester (www.rochester.edu) is one of the nation's leading private universities. Located in Rochester, N.Y., the University gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and close collaboration with faculty through its unique cluster-based curriculum. Its College, School of Arts and Sciences, and Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences are complemented by its Eastman School of Music, Simon School of Business, Warner School of Education, Laboratory for Laser Energetics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, School of Nursing, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, and the Memorial Art Gallery.